Why Lisa Vanderpump Didn’t Take Husband Ken Todd’s Last Name?

In the world of celebrity marriages, it’s common to see famous women adopt their spouse’s surname — sometimes for tradition, sometimes for branding. But Lisa Vanderpump, one of reality TV’s most iconic personalities, didn’t follow that path. Despite being married to restaurateur Ken Todd since 1982, she never became Lisa Todd. So, why did she decide to keep her maiden name?

It turns out, Vanderpump’s decision wasn’t just about branding — it was a deeply personal choice rooted in identity, timing, and a dash of cheeky humor. In a rare and candid interview with Bravo, Lisa revealed the real reason she opted to stick with "Vanderpump," and it has everything to do with authenticity.

“Vanderpump Just Sounds Better”

When Lisa Vanderpump married Ken Todd, she was already well into building a career in the entertainment and hospitality industries. The name “Vanderpump” was not only unique — it had an elegant, upper-crust ring to it that made it memorable. As Lisa herself put it, “Vanderpump is just a much nicer name than Todd… no offense to my husband.”

That lighthearted remark reveals one truth many fans already know: Lisa Vanderpump has always had a strong sense of identity and self-awareness. In a culture where women are often expected to give up part of themselves in marriage, Vanderpump saw no need to abandon a name that felt like her own brand long before she was a Bravo star.

Not About Rebellion — Just Preference

Lisa’s choice wasn’t rooted in feminism or rebellion, though those might be byproducts of it. Her explanation was refreshingly simple: she liked her own name better. The decision came naturally, especially considering that Ken’s previous wife had kept the Todd surname. Rather than join a club that already had a member, Lisa chose to remain Vanderpump.

The move also allowed her to maintain professional continuity. Before her “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” fame, Lisa was already a businesswoman, writer, and actress. Changing her name might have caused confusion in her growing public and private ventures.

A Brand Was Born — Before Bravo

Well before “Vanderpump Rules” became a reality TV staple, the Vanderpump name was synonymous with luxury and elegance in the hospitality scene. Lisa and Ken jointly ran a series of high-end restaurants and lounges, but it was Lisa’s flair for design and branding that often made headlines. From Villa Blanca to SUR, her vision was always front and center — and so was her name.

Keeping “Vanderpump” wasn’t just a sentimental decision. It became a cornerstone of her brand identity. As any entrepreneur knows, name recognition is everything. In Lisa’s case, her surname quickly became a household name — and a global trademark.

A Modern Take on Family Names

Interestingly, while Lisa never took the Todd surname, her children — Pandora and Max — carry a hyphenated last name: Vanderpump-Todd. It’s a subtle but powerful nod to unity. The children’s names blend both family legacies without forcing either parent to compromise.

This modern approach to surnames reflects how Lisa and Ken’s relationship works — rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and equal partnership. Rather than follow convention, the couple has built a family that blends tradition with individuality.

Ken Todd’s Quiet Support

One of the most compelling aspects of Lisa’s decision is Ken Todd’s unwavering support. While some might feel slighted when their spouse opts not to share a surname, Ken never made an issue of it. In fact, he’s often playfully referred to as “Mr. Vanderpump” — a title he wears with pride.

Their dynamic is a refreshing reminder that strong marriages don’t need to follow rigid formulas. For Lisa and Ken, what matters most is the love and respect they’ve cultivated over four decades — not matching names on a passport.

Final Thoughts: Identity Over Tradition

In an era where more women are choosing to keep their maiden names, Lisa Vanderpump’s story stands out — not because she made a bold feminist statement, but because she simply stayed true to herself.

“Why didn’t Lisa Vanderpump take Ken Todd’s last name?” might sound like a trivial question at first. But it touches on deeper themes of identity, self-worth, and personal choice — especially in the public eye.

For Vanderpump, the answer is elegantly simple: she liked her name, it was part of who she was, and she saw no reason to change it. In doing so, she not only preserved her identity but built an empire around it.